With the NFL in its offseason, teams around the league are looking for new talent to help build their teams for the following season. This offseason, however, seems to have attracted talent from an unlikely athlete for a contact sport like football.
According to Larry Hartstein of CBS Sports, on Sunday 28-year-old Lauren Silberman became the first woman to try out for the NFL. To see alternate video, click here.
The New York City resident and former club soccer player tried out as a placekicker at the NFL Regional Scouting Combine, one of 10 regional combines for those not invited to Indianapolis.
"I saw the opportunity and had to go for it," Silberman told USA Today last week. "I love football, new experiences, and wanted to take the chance to learn more about the training process that leads to a successful NFL career. It was a bit of a surprise to some but mostly just an outcry of 'That's my girl! (and) "You go, Silbs!' ... My family and friends seem to be getting a kick out of this."
Silberman, who played club soccer at Wisconsin, is aware that the odds are stacked against her, but believes the NFL should be applauded for giving women the opportunity to tryout.
"I hope my willingness to put myself out there inspires others to participate as athletes at this level," said Silberman, who only recently started practicing long-range field goals.
Several women have kicked or tried out as kickers in college. Last year, former LSU soccer goalie Mo Isom tried out for the Tigers. In 2003, Katie Hnida kicked two extra points for New Mexico. She went on to kick in the Continental Indoor Football League.
According to Jane McManus of ESPNNewYork.com, Silberman did not kick well at the combine and may have injured herself in the process:
